Robotics research for forestry work

Robots could soon take over dangerous forestry jobs - Some of the most
dangerous and labour intensive jobs in the primary sector could soon be done by
robots.

Researchers from Lincoln Agritech, Scion, and several universities around the
country are working to develop robots that can be trained to work alongside people
in the sector, and in manufacturing.

The $2 million project will take place over the next two years.

Agritech's group manager in precision agriculture, Armin Werner, said they would
investigate how sensors and artificial intelligence could be used to help robots
understand their surroundings and adapt to them.

He said they would provide enormous benefits to the primary sector, especially in
dangerous industries such as forestry.

"We have so many hazardous working conditions. In forestry for example, felling
trees, pruning trees in very steep and harsh environments, it is a very risky work area
and in the future we need to support that work with robots that can adjust to the
different situations in the forest," he said.

Dr Werner said robots would also prove helpful in fruit production and helping apple,
kiwifruit and grape growers with pruning.